Detection of Permethrin in Military Uniforms via Microwave NDE Navy SBIR FY2014.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2014.2 Topic No.: N142-084 Topic Title: Detection of Permethrin in Military Uniforms via Microwave NDE Proposal No.: N142-084-0586 Firm: Nokomis, Inc 310 5th St. Charleroi, Pennsylvania 15022 Contact: Andrew Portune Phone: (724) 926-2299 Web Site: www.nokomisinc.com Abstract: Permethrin content in the Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform (MCCUU) decreases during active field duty, potentially exposing Marines to disease-carrying insects. Chemical based tests are currently impossible to perform in-situ under field condition, requiring consumables, bulky equipment, and a long test time. Under this effort, Nokomis will develop a handheld permethrin detection device that uses nondestructive microwave absorption measurements to determine the concentration of permethrin in the MCCUU in less than two seconds. All chemical species absorb microwave energy as they undergo energy state transitions. Nokomis' device will target multiple frequencies in the microwave frequency band where permethrin exhibits its characteristic absorption behavior. Experimental tests on controlled sample sets will be performed to derive requirements for the handheld device. Current expectations are that the developed product will weigh less than two pounds, fit within a Marine's pocket, and perform accurate tests on any part of the uniform within two seconds. Sensitivity to concentrations as low as 50 pico-grams per square centimeter are expected through use of Nokomis' microwave sensor technology as a foundation for the handheld device. The technology developed under this program is thereby anticipated to exceed stated Marine Corps requirements for the handheld permethrin detection device. Benefits: The proposed handheld permethrin detection device is a disruptive technology that will transform the means by which treated uniforms are tested. The accuracy, repeatability, and sensitivity to low concentrations of the active chemical are superior to currently employed techniques while requiring a fraction of the time and materials. Development of the proposed technology will provide deployed Marines with the means to rapidly determine whether their uniforms are providing sufficient protection against biting insects. Adoption of this technology will reduce sustainment costs associated with treating Marines who contract insect-borne diseases due to worn uniforms. Transition of the developed technology to the Marine Corps for active use is the focus of product commercialization. Nokomis will work with currently utilized test houses as well as Marine Corps suppliers to identify the appropriate insertion point for the handheld detection device. Other Governmental agencies with similar needs, such as the Army and Air Force, will serve as a secondary market. Private sector applications include groups involved in outdoor activities, such as hikers, medical missions to jungles, etc. In addition, Nokomis will pursue opportunities for detecting other chemical species using the proposed technology for improved national security and personnel protection. Return